Harvey S. Firestone Memorial, Bronze memorial sculpture at Bridgestone Americas Technology Center, Akron, United States.
The Harvey S. Firestone Memorial is a bronze sculpture located at the Bridgestone Americas Technology Center in Akron. The installation features a large seated figure of the industrialist alongside six relief panels that depict various aspects of manufacturing and human labor.
The memorial was commissioned in 1938 following Firestone's death and was created by renowned sculptors James Earle Fraser and Donald De Lue. The formal dedication took place in 1950, honoring the founder of the tire company that shaped Akron's industrial identity.
The memorial panels represent fundamental industrial concepts through Contemplation, Invention, Leadership, and Achievement, reflecting American manufacturing values.
The memorial is located on a corporate campus and is open to visitors during standard business hours. It is advisable to confirm access in advance since hours may vary depending on company activities.
Interestingly, the first public unveiling was conducted with a painted plaster version of the statue, which was later replaced with the final bronze version without fanfare. This original temporary version remains an often-overlooked footnote in the memorial's history.
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